Diaulula hispida, also known as the Hispid Diaulula, is a species of colorful sea slug belonging to the family Discodorididae. These nudibranchs are known for their striking appearance and fascinating feeding habits, making them a popular subject of interest for marine enthusiasts and scientists alike.
Description & Characteristics
Diaulula hispida are relatively small nudibranchs, typically reaching a maximum size of around 25 mm in length. Their bodies are characterized by a distinct, elongated shape with a prominent mantle, which is often adorned with numerous small, raised tubercles or bumps giving them their “hispid” name. The color of Diaulula hispida can vary considerably, ranging from vibrant shades of orange and yellow to more subdued tones of brown and grey. The distinctive feature of this species is the presence of a white line that runs along the edge of the mantle, separating it from the body. Diaulula hispida are also known for their retractable rhinophores, which are sensory organs used to detect food and navigate their environment. They possess cerata, which are finger-like projections along their dorsal surface that serve as respiratory organs.
Habitat and Occurrence
Diaulula hispida is a common inhabitant of rocky shores and reefs, often found in shallow waters and tidal pools. This nudibranch is most frequently observed in the intertidal zone, where it can be seen crawling along the bottom or clinging to rocks and seaweed. Diaulula hispida is a primarily benthic species, meaning it lives in the bottom layer of the ocean. Their distribution spans from the Pacific coast of North America to the western Atlantic, with observations reported from California to Alaska in the US and from British Columbia to Baja California in Canada.
Taxonomy
Diaulula hispida is classified within the phylum Mollusca, belonging to the class Gastropoda, which comprises a diverse group of animals including snails, slugs, and sea slugs. The species falls under the order Nudibranchia, which is characterized by the absence of an external shell and the presence of cerata. Finally, Diaulula hispida is a member of the family Discodorididae, a family of nudibranchs known for their brightly colored bodies and their preference for sponges as a food source.
Feeding
Diaulula hispida is a specialist feeder, meaning it relies primarily on a specific type of food for sustenance. In the case of Diaulula hispida, they have a strong preference for sponges. These nudibranchs use their radula, a ribbon-like structure studded with teeth, to scrape and ingest sponge tissue. Interestingly, some Diaulula hispida are able to store toxins obtained from the sponges they consume, utilizing these toxins as a defense mechanism against predators.
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